Dear Sun Spots: I have to use a bipap machine for sleep apnea. The company that I bought it from told me that I have to use distilled water for it, not tap water. Is there any way I can make my own distilled water without buying it? Thank you. — No Name, NoTown.

Answer: Sun Spots found researching this topic most entertaining. There was a YouTube video showing someone making distilled water with a teapot and Tupperware dish to feed their Venus flytrap — a method which looked most impractical, and another with a homemade device that used solar energy; it was basically a cold frame that captured the condensation on the glass. That might work in a sunny climate, but with winter approaching, not so well in Maine. Several Web sites offered the following method:

1. Thoroughly wash and sterilize a large pot with a lid (a lobster pot might be a good size), a brick and the coffeepot from your coffeemaker. Running them through your dishwasher is a good way to accomplish this.

2. Place the brick in the pot and fill the pot so that the brick is just barely covered. Set your coffeepot on the brick.

3. Put the lid on the pot and place the whole setup on your stove’s burner.

4. Once the water starts to boil, place a bag of ice cubes on the lid of the large pot. This will encourage the water on the lid to condense and drop into the coffee pot. If you put the lid on upside-down, the low point for condensation will be right above the coffeepot, and the ice cubes will stay put.

This process will take some time, about 40 minutes to make a quart of water.

You can also purchase commercially made countertop distiller for your home. Two Web sites, www.nextag.com/water-distiller/shop-html and www.waterdistillersusa.com offer reviews of different distillers available for purchase. The lowest priced ones seem to hover around $150, but Sun Spots couldn’t get a good feel for the differences between those and the much more expensive models. Amazon.com has a fairly wide selection, selling models for $129 and up.

Dear Sun Spots: I need some Plexiglas for windows to do my porch. Any size will do, whatever you have. I’ll pick it up. I need a lot to do a porch. Call 782-1157. You can leave a message if I’m not home. Leave your phone number, and I’ll get back to you. — Mary Ann Michaud, Lewiston

Answer: Sun Spots has had considerable experience with Plexiglas. She bought several 4- by 8-foot sheets from a lumber yard that had them discounted (unfortunately, they are not currently available) for winterizing odd-sized windows. It’s great stuff but difficult to cut without cracking. Be sure to provide plenty of frame support and cross pieces. Large windows will not hold up against big winds.

Dear Sunspots: On Saturday, Sept. 26, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. the Oxford Congregational Church will be holding a craft fair at 252 King St. Something for everyone including woodworking, paintings, crafters, jellies and jams, bake sale and pie auction at 1 p.m.

Luncheon items, available starting at 11 a.m., include corn chowder, sandwiches, dessert and lobster stew, which is new this year. The church building is handicap accessible. The fair will be held on the main floor and lower level, where a white elephant sale will feature gently used treasures and antiques.

Come out and support your local crafters and enjoy some lunch. Proceeds will help fund the recent conversion to the town water supply. — Debi, Oxford Women’s Guild  

Dear Sun Spots: I would like to submit the following to your column: Would the lady who bought my spinet piano last month please call me, at 666-3427? I have misplaced your address and phone number. Thank you. — L. Williams, Bowdoinham

        

This column is for you, our readers. It is for your questions and comments. There are only two rules: You must write to the column and sign your name (we won’t use it if you ask us not to). Letters will not be returned or answered by mail, and telephone calls will not be accepted. Your letters will appear as quickly as space allows. Address them to Sun Spots, P.O. Box 4400, Lewiston, ME 04243-4400. Inquiries can also be e-mailed to sunspots@sunjournal.com.